​Connect,enjoy,heal,protect....

Cabin Fever is not an actual ailment; it is characterized as irritability, listlessness, and similar symptoms resulting from long confinement or isolation indoors during the winter. Many Americans are currently experiencing abnormally cold temperatures and record amounts of snow. While I am a strong proponent of getting out into the great outdoors, even I have to admit there are sometimes when staying inside just might be the best thing.

It can be easy to get lured into taking long naps, binge watching series on television or snacking on our favorite comfort foods during this season. Spring is a long way away- March 20th to be exact. If we are not careful, however, we may be regretting our slouching ways as we start peeling off the heavy sweaters and turtlenecks.

So, what else can we do to keep well and occupied during the winter season? Let's look at a few ideas that I have come up with. I hope you will add your own, we have a lot of time to fill.

1. Create an indoor garden. Studies suggest that indoor gardens may have several health benefits including decreasing stress, increasing attention capacity and restorative benefits. Orchids are an easy indoor plant to grow and maintain. Take a look at this VIDEO I made to see how easy it is to create a beautiful indoor garden.

2. Organize. Why wait until spring to clean? We can get started now-purging closets and draws, organizing cabinets and desks, so when the weather becomes warm and inviting again, we are ready to head outdoors!3. Create Your Own Home Spa. How does soaking in a warm, Epsom salt bath surrounded by candlelight while sipping a warm cup of chamomile tea or wine sound to you? Put your favorite playlist on, close the door and breathe.​

4. Phone A Friend. We may think we know how are friends are doing after all we see what they are up to on facebook and maybe we just got a holiday card. But, have you ever noticed that when you actually SPEAK to a friend, you may get a different story? Do you laugh the way you do when you reminisce about the old times? Wouldn't it feel good to hear their voice or know that you made their day by just taking the time to reach out? Go ahead, pick up the phone, give an old college roommate or a childhood friend a call. ​5. Dream Of Spring. The sound of birds chirping outside your open bedroom window ushering in fresh, fragrant air may sound heavenly right now. Bright yellow daffodils bursting open in your backyard showing off their resilience may seem days away. We can prepare ourselves to participate in the wonders of spring by watching 'How To' videos such as my VIDEO on How To Create A Container Garden. ​

Perhaps you are thinking you may want to start or improve on growing your own food. Check out my colleague, The Nurse Farmer, He hosts a VIDEO series on how to grow food and includes the health benefits of vegetables, fruit and herbs. You'll have a blossoming green thumb in no time!

6. Make Believe It Is Warm. My most popular blog post ever, on my author website, has received thousands of hits. Fun Ideas For A Caribbean Book Club Meeting features how to create a book club meeting that just might make you feel like dancing to reggae music in your bare feet. The blog outlines how you can create a warm, tropical book club meeting right in your own home after reading the first of my two-novel series, I Know You're There.

Do any of these ideas sound good to you? What suggestions would you add? We would love to hear them!

Susan Allison-Dean is a board-certified, advanced holistic registered nurse who holds the intention to promote wellness with holistic tools. She specializes in nature and aromatherapy. To learn more about holistic wellness subscribe to this blog or follow Susan on one of her social media platforms which all use the handle @TheNatureNurse.

Great blog and suggestions. I like all of them. Over the last couple of weeks I have been organizing my house. Another suggestion is to have a winter cook in. Have friends bring over their favorite winter foods with a summer twist. I.e. a ginger lemon aide, warm roasted potato salad. You can also play your favorite music and play games such as pictionary or Taboo.

These are all amazing tips! And yes... I was battling (and always do) this since it has been so cold here. I just bundle up, layer up, and get outside if even for a short amount of time. And yes... I have a ginormous indoor garden too, LOL. Great post! Sharing.

Reply

Sue Allison

1/8/2018 02:17:07 pm

Thank you, Elizabeth. Yes, you are absolutely right, we don't want to forget to get outside as much as possible and bearable. Amazing what a little sunlight on our face and fresh air will do.

Love these ideas. Especially the reminder that spring isn't that far away.
I have a rebounder (3 foot diameter mini trampoline) that I love to jump on while listening to music, the news or a podcast. Thanks for your post, I'm sharing!.

Reply

Sue Allison-Dean

1/17/2018 10:57:39 am

Thanks for sharing, Jackie! Love your trampoline idea, that sounds like fun. I have a hula hoop that I use and usually follow with some yoga. So important to stay flexible and not shrivel up during the extreme weather.